Kerala is set to see a significant boost in its start-up ecosystem with the commencement of a new emerging technology start-up hub under the Kerala Start-Up Mission (KSUM). The construction of this hub, located at Technopark Phase IV (Technocity), is scheduled to begin in May.

Preparatory works are already in progress, including land clearing and leveling of the designated three-acre plot, with initial support from Technopark authorities. The hub will feature a five-storey building encompassing five lakh sq. ft., capable of hosting around 1,000 start-ups, significantly expanding the region’s start-up infrastructure.

The project design is complete, and financial estimates are being prepared for the tender to be floated in March. Preliminary approval for the detailed project report (DPR) has been given by the state government. Five key sectors have been identified for the hub: aerospace, healthcare, agriculture and food, digital media and entertainment, and energy. These areas were selected after a comprehensive study conducted by a project management consultant.

The hub is being developed through a public-private partnership model, with an estimated cost of Rs 145 crore. Unlike the current incubation centre at Technopark, which accommodates only 10 to 15 start-ups, the new hub will provide ample space for collaboration and business growth.